Whitewater Rafting and Horseback Riding Adventure in Southwest Idaho

Irene Ogeto worked in partnership with Visit Idaho to create this Travel Tip.

I didn’t always grow up exploring the outdoors. I started hiking more frequently as an adult and hiking has changed my life. I never imagined a life in which I get to go on adventures in nature but I’m so thankful for these opportunities. Being outdoors and trying new things can be intimidating especially when it’s your first time. However, with the right people and experts to guide you, it may very well turn out to be the best moments of your life. Whitewater rafting and horseback trail riding for the first time in Idaho taught me not to be afraid to try new things. The memories I’ve made exploring Idaho will be memories that will last a lifetime.

Whitewater Rafting the Main Payette River

Idaho is well known for having some of the best whitewater rafting adventures in North America and makes for the perfect summertime adventure. Located just 45 minutes from Boise, Idaho is Cascade Raft and Kayak, a company that offers a wide variety of adventures along the Main Payette River.  With Cascade Raft and Kayak, you can choose the adventure that you’re most comfortable with. In partnership with Visit Idaho, I was able to experience a half day whitewater rafting adventure. I got to go on the Half Day “Splash” and spent 3 hours floating 8 miles down the Main Payette through class II and class III rapids. Cascade Raft and Kayak also offers more intense experiences that take you through class IV rapids, towering canyon walls and so much more.

The Cascade Raft and Kayak facility offers restrooms, a cafe, changing rooms and lockers to keep valuable items. Because this was my first time going whitewater rafting, I was a little nervous about doing it. However, the staff at Cascade Raft and Kayak knew exactly what to do.

Once you check in at the facility, you’re provided with all the equipment (i.e. life jacket, helmet, etc) needed for your adventure. After securing a life jacket, we got on board a bus and headed down the highway to the entry point into the river. Once our guide gave us a quick brief on a few tips to help make the experience better, we were on our way floating down the river.

Along the ride you get stunning views of the Main Payette River and more. There are opportunities to jump in the water and swim, play games or just relax in the slow moving parts of the river. This half day splash is the perfect entry point into whitewater rafting and is great for everyone. I really enjoyed dipping my toes into something new and experiencing what it’s like to go whitewater rafting. For more information on how you can book your whitewater rafting adventure check out the Cascade Raft and Kayak website.

Horseback Trail Riding in McCall

What a great way to enjoy the trails from a different perspective. I went horseback riding for the first time through the Payette National Forest. Located just minutes from downtown McCall, Idaho is Ya-Hoo Corrals. Ya-Hoo Corrals provided trail rides through different terrains and is perfect for everyone.

Ya-Hoo Corrals offers rides that range anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. They offer private rides as well. I went on a 90 minute ride with a guide. Upon arrival at Ya-Hoo Corrals you are provided with a helmet and a guide will help you get fitted onto your horse. I love that all the guides are well equipped and knowledgeable. The horses are well trained and well mannered. They know exactly where to go throughout the trail, making the ride go smoothly.

This was my first time ever on a horse and I felt so comfortable the entire time. My horse for the ride, Woodrow, was well trained and he didn’t not give me any trouble. The horses have been through the trail multiple times so they are comfortable going through the terrain. Along this ride I was able to take in the ponderosa pine and aspen trees and get a view of Payette Lake from a distance. Whether you choose to go floating down the Main Payette River or horseback trail riding at Payette National Forest, you are sure of a good time in Idaho. It felt so great to be able to enjoy nature from a different perspective and I highly recommend giving it a shot.

Feature image credited to Irene Ogeto.

I’m Irene Ogeto, the Black Hiking Queen, a Texas native, traveling the world, hiking and loving every moment. I’m a high school math educator but when I’m not in the classroom, I’m outdoors on an adventure. Now more than ever, I am passionate about the outdoors. I love to hike. I love to go camping. I love to be surrounded by nature. There is something about nature that cannot be explained because it must be experienced. It is my hope that through my work as the Black Hiking Queen that I’m able to educate and inspire others to experience nature and the profound effects it brings.